The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, once a shimmering mirage, is now taking shape into something almost tangible.

The Athletic made its first U.S. women’s national team roster prediction back in October 2025, and now, with six international windows to go until the tournament roster announcement, it is time to jump back into roster predictions with our 2.0 edition.

On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by Melanie Anzidei and Tamerra Griffin to break down their latest 23-player roster predictions. Where did Melanie and Tamerra agree and where did their picks clash? Which players are locks and which are not? Who is on the bubble with a chance to break in? What has changed since the last predictions in October?

PLUS: The latest on a developing story out of the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup, where five players have defected from the Iran women’s soccer team and are being cared for in a safe house operated by the Australian Federal Police.

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HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin, Melanie Anzidei

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen

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Referenced on the show:

A clear core group emerges as USWNT defeats Canada: ‘I love winning football matches like this’

USWNT 2027 World Cup roster predictions 2.0: What changed with SheBelieves Cup win?

Five Iran Women soccer players defect with help of police following Asian Cup in Australia

FIFA, Australian government hold urgent talks over Iran women’s team’s future after Asian Cup exit

Emma Hayes’ rebuild of the USWNT is taking shape – and already reaping rewards